Obviously there are a couple broadcasting programs you can choose from, and even more hosting sites, but for this tutorial we’re going to use OBS and Twitch. The reason for that is because they are the most used. Also, the basic rundown of how to install and connect to the streaming host or site is going to be VERY similar to one another. Hopefully the video and basic rundown will be enough to get you going and work your way to page #2.

Something to keep in mind…Is your PC awesome enough to stream?

We have had an AWESOME guest on the podcast who actually discussed building the optimal gaming/streaming PC. That episode is PGH 005. I definitely would suggest listening to that, but if you’re not up for it, I will also add some pictures that XSplit shows as their minimum and recommended settings. OBS is right around the same as far as recommended settings go.

XSplit Gamecaster/Broadcaster System Requirements

Let’s assume you’re PC is all set, and you’re ready to install and get on with the show. We’ll take you through installation and then follow up with getting you connected to your hosting site. Like I said earlier, if you go through this intro section for OBS but decide to use XSplit, they are VERY similar and connect super easy. Once connected, continue onto page two like you would normally.

Step 1: Head over to OBS and install for whichever platform you are using. (Generally Windows, but it does work on Macs)

[ATTENTION: Do not worry about adding anything at this point. We will talk about that in the next section.]

Step 3: Log into Twitch and go to your Dashboard->Stream Key and click on Show Key.

Step 4: Copy the Stream Key and paste it in your OBS Broadcast Settings and click ok. You are now ready to start streaming.

Side Note

Obviously there are also other things to keep in mind, like the vast amount of sites that you could be streaming from, and even the fact that you could be streaming from a console. This is a general start to how to find your stream key and get yourself started. Generally consoles are even easier, unless of course you’re using a capture card, in which case you would be able to relate to this tutorial. We go further into streaming techniques, graphics, overlays and more in the upcoming pages.

What’s next?

On the next portion of Streaming Basics we’re going to talk about adding things to your stream. This means graphics, images, overlays, camera and more. If you don’t yet have a capture card and you’re streaming from a console currently, that’s okay, just skip the next page and move on to section #3 for now.